The new red Tesla Model S purchased by President Donald Trump faces immediate criticism because multiple safety recalls exist on the vehicle. During his West Wing appearance, the president displayed the car while announcing that Margo Martin would receive permission to drive it. Before starting the journey, the vehicle requires maintenance work.
The Model S has received 37 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recalls, which cover airbags, power steering assist, door handles, and braking systems, as reported in Wired. The Full Self-Driving (FSD) system from Tesla received a recall order because drivers reported speed control and stopping system malfunctions. The White House has not provided any information about whether essential maintenance was conducted before Trump acquired the vehicle.
The president transformed his South Lawn into an instant Tesla car display where he presented five models that included the Cybertruck. President Trump and Tesla CEO Elon Musk joined inside the vehicle while Musk showed off its capabilities. Trump refused all discounts when he purchased his Tesla from Elon Musk through a personal check, although he did not drive the vehicle himself. Musk and X accompanied him to verify that Trump possessed strong creditworthiness.
Musk faces criticism for his involvement with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which seeks federal government downsizing. Nationwide protests have erupted against Musk because of his actions, leading demonstrators to attack Tesla showrooms while they vandalize charging stations and burn Cybertrucks. Activists have charged Musk with being authoritarian by displaying the “Block Fascism Now” message at their protests.
Trump continues to support Musk by calling him a “great patriot,” even though he blames “radical left lunatics” for leading the anti-Tesla movement. The government restructuring efforts of Musk are expected to intensify the growing tensions between his supporters and his critics.
